Sixth at the end of the Assen GP Maverick Vinales did not hide his disappointment at the end of the race. Aside from the episode that cost him at least one position at the end, the Spaniard highlighted a certain deficit compared to the Borgo Panigale bikes. A performance handicap that is evidently influencing the progress of the races.
“I got the best and even more out of the bike, but nevertheless many finished ahead of us, so we must continue to work because the situation is complicated. What is Ducati better at? It’s difficult to make comparisonsespecially when the difference is so obvious. There are some areas in which they are stronger, others we are. They definitely manage the tires well at the startso they arrive at the last rounds still in good condition“, he analyzed – Furthermore, they are able to close the changes of direction very well and immediately pull the motorcycle up. Today, for example, at turns 5, 9 and 15 I was always losing them, while in the other sections of the track I defended myself well.“.
The 29-year-old seems to be very clear that something is wrong. “I’m happy, but not satisfied because I’m riding at a good level to win, but still being faster We’re still missing something from 2023. That’s why, as soon as we find ourselves on a friendly circuit we will have to take advantage of it. We’ll see how it goes in Germany. In general, I had an excellent performance at Montmelo and finished eighth, here sixth. If I hadn’t had the problem I would have finished fifth which wouldn’t have changed much. I would have liked to have more, but the bike was moving a lot and I couldn’t turn. It’s a shame given that our bike is competitive.”
The ex-Yamaha Grand Prix was decided at turn 15.”I felt a strong shaking – He admitted – I have to say, though, that I suffered from it for the entire weekend, like all the other RS-GP bikes. Maybe it was the aerodynamics’ fault, but taking the corners was certainly quite complicated.”.
Several pilots were placed under investigation. “From what I understand it’s a question of front tire pressure. We’ll see.“, he said.
Finally, making a comparison with the old RS-GP23 he revealed: “The weight balance has been changed. Last year it was more rear-focused, with less load. If I make a comparison with Fernandez, however, I don’t see any points in which his version could be better of my updated one. We have made a step forward and we hope that in the summer we can make another one, as I know I can fight at the front”.
